By Mark Pszonak
There are plenty of talented running backs returning for the 2025 season, with two of the best being Jeremiyah Love of Notre Dame and Nicholas Singleton of Penn State. Which of the two will have a bigger season this fall, and which will have a better future in the NFL.
2024
Love was one of the more productive running backs in the country in 2024 with 1,125 yards rushing and 17 touchdowns. He also added 28 receptions for 237 yards and two more touchdowns through the air. His sudden rise to stardom was a huge reason that Notre Dame made it all the way to the National Championship game.
Unlike Love, Singleton was already a proven commodity entering the 2024 season and once again proved to be elite with 1,099 yards and 12 rushing touchdowns. He was also vital in the passing game with 41 receptions for 375 yards and five touchdowns. He also accomplished all of this while splitting playing time with Kaytron Allen, who rushed for 1,108 yards and eight touchdowns.
2025
Notre Dame had a security blanket at quarterback last season, Riley Leonard, which made it possible for Love to ease his way into the season. With Leonard now gone, and with an inexperienced quarterback taking over (CJ Carr or Steve Angeli), much more of the offense will fall on Love’s shoulders. If the Irish are to have another huge season, Love will need to be even more explosive which could make him an All-American.
Singleton will be in a different position than Love. Even his return to Happy Valley is a surprise as many expected him to declare for the NFL Draft. But now with him returning, along with Allen and quarterback Drew Allar, the Penn State offense is locked and loaded in the backfield. Having the benefit of again splitting carries with Allen will keep Singleton fresh and hopefully healthy. While it is unlikely that his season will be much better statistically than in was in 2024, his influence may be even more important.
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Conclusion
2025 is Singleton’s last season in Happy Valley, while Love will have the opportunity to return in 2026. Considering most elite running backs don’t use up their collegiate eligibility, it is most likely that both will be in the 2026 NFL Draft. So which one will make a bigger impact at the next level? Singleton (6-foot-0, 226-pounds) already possesses many of the traits that NFL scouts look for. He has good size, has great burst and vision and is explosive in the open field. His improved receiving skills are also a huge benefit. For Love (6-foot-0, 210-pounds), the potential is there but more must be proven this fall before he can be classified as an elite NFL prospect. Being the key returning offensive skill player at Notre Dame, Love will be given every opportunity to reach that mark.
